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CLU23124 Roman History

This module examines the Roman empire from Augustus until the later empire. It traces the establishment of the so-called Principate and its evolution over following four-hundred years. It also considers how the empire was structured and governed, as well as the lived experience of those who fell under its aegis. Since the main emphasis of this course is on broad changes and the close analysis of ancient evidence, extensive individual reading is required.
  • Module Organiser:
    • Dr Rebecca Usherwood
  • Duration:
    • All year
  • Contact Hours:
    • 32 lectures (2 per week), 6 seminars
  • Weighting:
    • 10 ECTS
  • Assessment:
    • 70% continuous assessment (three written assignments), 30% final examination

Introductory Reading

  • Potter, D., ed. (2009) A Companion to the Roman Empire (Oxford)
  • Barrett, A., ed. (2010) Lives of the Caesars (Boston)
  • Kelly, C. (2006) The Roman Empire: A Very Short Introduction (Oxford)
  • Clark, G. (2011) Late Antiquity: A Very Short Introduction (Oxford)
  • Levick, B. (2000) The Government of the Roman Empire. A Sourcebook (Abingdon)

Learning Outcomes

On successful conclusion of this module, students should be able to:

  • apply knowledge of the primary textual sources relevant to the module topic.
  • identify and contextualise relevant forms of non-textual evidence, and integrate them with textual sources.
  • evaluate the major theoretical approaches, debates and scholarship relevant to the module topics.
  • discuss the above, both orally and in written form, in a clear and scholarly manner.
  • work effectively in small groups.